Oil-Oil Correlation

As it turns out, these two samples, whilst displaying significantly different saturated hydrocarbon GC traces (as a result of biodegradation), had very similar biomarker fingerprints and isotopic compositions. The final model being they were from the same source rock, had been generated at the same maturity but had suffered variable degrees of secondary alteration (i.e. biodegradation). When integrated with the regional geology, a clearer petroleum system model emerged.

DESL firmly believe that when performing regional correlations, an informed approach must be taken. This is even more important when considering oil-source correlation where the maturities of the available source rocks and oils may be vastely different.

There are times when blind correlation can be extremely useful, and no more so than in reservoir geochemistry. Here differences observed in the distribution of alkyl benzene compounds (Shell derived) and peaks eluting between nC8 and nC12 in the whole oil GC (Chevron derived) can be used to detect subtle differences. Statistical analysis of these differences can support the presence of reservoir compartments or at least a baffling effect on the reservoir mixing process. The identification of barriers, when integrated with the reservoir geology can obviously help in the location of production and injection wells.